FAQs about Ampyra

Ampyra was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in January 2010 as a treatment for easing walking difficulties associated with multiple sclerosis. It is indicated for all forms of the disease.

Ampyra has not been well-studied in pregnant people, but data from animal studies suggest that it can cause harm to a developing fetus. Patients who become or plan to become pregnant while on the medication should discuss this issue with their healthcare provider.

Alcohol is not known to directly interact with Ampyra. But some side effects of the medication, such as dizziness, can also be caused by alcohol. Thus, taking the medication and alcohol together may increase the risk of such problems. Patients are advised to consult with their healthcare team about the use of alcohol or other recreational drugs in combination with their treatments.

According to Acorda, the company marketing Ampyra in the U.S., some multiple sclerosis patients experience walking improvement just a few weeks after starting the therapy. Others, however, may not notice a change for a month or two. Importantly, as with any medication, individual responses to the treatment may vary. Not all people will experience improvements in walking ability with this treatment, and the effects can vary markedly from person to person.

Neither hair loss nor weight gain has been reported as side effects of Ampyra in clinical trials. Patients who experience unexpected reactions after starting on a new medication are advised to seek guidance from their healthcare providers.

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